Is moxibustion effective for lower back pain?
Nov 07, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, the effectiveness of moxibustion for lower back pain depends on the underlying cause. Moxibustion can be helpful for pain caused by cold-dampness stagnation or strain, but has limited effect on pain due to organic lesions. To relieve lower back pain in daily life, in addition to appropriate use of moxibustion, it is important to keep the waist warm, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and take regular breaks to move the腰部 (lower back). Choose a mattress with moderate firmness and maintain correct sitting and standing posture.
Generally speaking, whether moxibustion is effective for lower back pain depends on the underlying cause. Moxibustion can be helpful for pain caused by cold-damp stagnation or strain, but its effectiveness is limited when the pain results from organic lesions. Detailed analysis is as follows:
If lower back pain is due to long-term strain or exposure to cold leading to poor local blood circulation, or muscle stiffness and soreness caused by stagnation of cold and dampness, moxibustion can help relieve muscle tension and reduce soreness by warming the body, unblocking meridians, dispelling cold, improving blood circulation, and alleviating muscle tightness. It is particularly effective in improving chronic strain-related pain.
However, if the pain is caused by organic conditions such as lumbar disc herniation, lumbar fractures, or tumors, moxibustion may only temporarily relieve discomfort without addressing the root cause. In some cases, relying solely on moxibustion might delay proper treatment and worsen the condition, making it less effective for such situations.
In daily life, in addition to using moxibustion appropriately, individuals should keep the lower back warm, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, and take regular breaks to move the waist. Choose a mattress with moderate firmness, maintain correct sitting and standing postures, and avoid bending over while lifting heavy objects. Combining stretching exercises and heat therapy, along with lifestyle adjustments, can reduce strain on the lower back and contribute to long-term improvement of pain symptoms.
